Comparison: Best Potting Soil With Organic Matter (Updated | Nov 11th)
If you’ve ever wondered why some plants thrive while others barely survive, the secret might be hiding right under your fingertips—your potting soil. Not all mixes are created equal, and when it comes to giving your plants the best shot, organic matter makes all the difference. In this article, we’ll dig into the top potting soils packed with rich, natural ingredients that boost growth, retain moisture, and feed your plants the way nature intended—no guesswork, just real results you can trust.
- Best for peat-free premium: Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Premium Blend | Made in The USA
- Best for quick-release fertilizer: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for indoor yucca boost: Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Promotes Healthy Houseplant Growth| Made in The USA
- Best for water balance guard: Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for coco coir expandable: WONDER SOIL Organic Potting Soil | Ready to Plant Coco Coir Fully Loaded with Nutrients | 3 LBS Bag Expands to 12 Quarts of Indoor Outdoor Soil for Gardens & Plants | Incl Worm Castings
- Best for large outdoor yield: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
- Best for dual-bag value: Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for all-purpose topsoil: Michigan Peat 40 Pound Bag Garden Magic Organic Planting Potting Top Soil Blend Mix for Indoor and Outdoor Gardening and Landscapes
- Best for bulk indoor mix: Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix
- Best for outdoor bundle power: Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix
Product Comparison: Best Potting Soil With Organic Matter
Back to the Roots 100% Organic Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Premium Blend | Made in The USA
- 100% Organic and Peat-Free: Our potting mix is 100% organic and peat-free—made from upcycled plant matter and wood fines from across the U.S. No imported peat, just better soil with a lighter carbon footprint.
- All-Purpose: Our premium potting mix is versatile and well-suited for herbs, veggies, fruits, and flowers. It caters to all your gardening needs, and is proudly made in the USA.
- Better Moisture Control and pH Balance: Our premium soil blend incorporates yucca extract for moisture control and dolomitic limestone for pH balancing.
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee: Not satisfied? Let us know. Our support team will get you growing with a replacement or refund—no questions asked.
- GROWONEGIVEONE — Share a photo of your growing garden and we’ll donate a Kids Grow Kit and STEM elementary school curriculum to a classroom of your choice.
Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix, for Outdoor Container Plants, Contains Quick-Release Natural Fertilizer, OMRI Listed, 16 qt.
- Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix contains a quick-release natural fertilizer and also feeds plants for up to 2 months
- This potting mix is made with responsibly sourced peat (one hundred percent of peat sourced from certified producers)
- Use this organic potting mix with all types of outdoor container plants, including flowers, vegetables, herbs, annuals, and perennials
- To plant in pots, fill the container partially full with potting mix, place the plant in the pot after loosening the root ball, cover with more mix and water thoroughly
- One 16 qt. bag of Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix fills one 12-inch container (amounts may vary based on the size of the root ball)
Back to the Roots 100% Organic Indoor Potting Mix (Value 12 Quart) | Promotes Healthy Houseplant Growth| Made in The USA
- FORMULATED FOR INDOOR USE: Our Potting Mix contains organic yucca extract that aids in retaining moisture in the soil whichs keeps your indoor plants happy and healthy
- ROOT-BOOSTING MYCORRHIZAE: This beneficial soil component provides your plants with a natural, organic way to boost their root development and nutrient uptake
- ORGANIC AND PEAT-FREE: Our indoor potting mix helps reduce greenhouse emissions and environmental impact, making it a responsible choice for conscious consumers
- BALANCING DOLOMITIC LIMESTONE: Balances the alkalinity and acidity levels of the soil, which ensures that your plants receive the necessary nutrients from the potting mix to grow healthy and strong
- SAFE FOR PETS AND PEOPLE: Made without bark or compost, this potting mix is less prone to indoor gnats and pests, making it a worry-free option for your indoor gardening needs
Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix, Protects Against Over and Under Watering, for Indoor Container Plants, Houseplants and Starter Plants, OMRI Listed, 16 qt.
- Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix protects indoor plants against over and under watering
- This organic container mix is made with responsibly sourced sphagnum peat moss (one hundred percent of peat sourced from certified producers), coir, and quick-start natural fertilizer
- Use this potting medium with all types of indoor container plants, including houseplants and herbs; also great for seed starting
- To plant seeds, fill container with potting mix, follow seed package planting directions, and water; To use with transplants, partially fill container, place plant after loosening the root ball, cover with more mix pressing lightly, and water
- One 16 qt. bag of Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix fills one 12-inch container (amounts may vary based on the size of the root ball)
WONDER SOIL Organic Potting Soil | Ready to Plant Coco Coir Fully Loaded with Nutrients | 3 LBS Bag Expands to 12 Quarts of Indoor Outdoor Soil for Gardens & Plants | Incl Worm Castings, Perlite
- NUTRIENT RICH & INDOOR/OUTDOOR FAST GERMINATION… Wonder Soil Premium Organic Potting Soil Mix is the only dry compressed coco coir mix with added amendments of worm castings, mycorrhizae, kelp, perlite and more! Grow your plants faster with stronger roots! Peat free, all natural, family and pet safe!
- A LITTLE DOES A LOT… your little BIG bag of compressed indoor potting soil & garden soil for outdoor plants expands to 4 TIMES THE SIZE when mixed with water; easy to carry & saves vital shed space.
- PRE-MIXED & READY TO USE ORGANIC POTTING MIX … Pre-mixed and ready to use organic potting soil and garden soil mix to help make your gardening or hobby growing a breeze. Simply transplant your desired plants into their new container and add our soil mix or pour our soil mix and plant your seeds.
- WATER RETENTION & DRAINAGE… Coco coir has excellent water retention with dependable drainage and aeration in the root zone. Save up to 50% of water, fertilizer, and seed!
- HEAVY DUTY RESEALABLE BAG… Use what you need and save the rest for later! Keeping your planting soil dry and safe!
Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix, for Outdoor Container Plants, Contains Quick-Release Natural Fertilizer, OMRI Listed, 25 qt.
- Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix contains a quick-release natural fertilizer and also feeds plants for up to 2 months
- This potting mix is made with responsibly sourced peat (one hundred percent of peat sourced from certified producers)
- Use this organic potting mix with all types of outdoor container plants, including flowers, vegetables, herbs, annuals, and perennials
- To plant in pots, fill the container partially full with potting mix, place the plant in the pot after loosening the root ball, cover with more mix and water thoroughly
- One 25 qt. bag of Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix fills three 10-inch containers (amount may vary based on the size of the root ball)
Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix, Protects Against Over and Under Watering, for Indoor Container Plants, Houseplants and Starter Plants, OMRI Listed, 8 qt., 2-Pack
- Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix protects indoor plants against over and under watering
- This organic container mix is made with responsibly sourced sphagnum peat moss (one hundred percent of peat sourced from certified producers), coir, and quick-start natural fertilizer
- Use this potting medium with all types of indoor container plants, including houseplants and herbs; also great for seed starting
- To plant seeds, fill container with potting mix, follow seed package planting directions, and water; To use with transplants, partially fill container, place plant after loosening the root ball, cover with more mix pressing lightly, and water
- This bundle includes two 8 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix; each bag fills two 8-inch containers (amounts may vary based on the size of the root ball)
Michigan Peat 40 Pound Bag Garden Magic Organic Planting Potting Top Soil Blend Mix for Indoor and Outdoor Gardening and Landscapes, White
- Ready-to-Use for All Planting Needs: This general-purpose potting mix is ready to use out of the bag, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor planting without any additional preparation
- Optimal Moisture Retention & Drainage: Designed to allow excess water to drain effectively while retaining moisture, promoting healthy plant growth during dry seasons
- High-Quality Soil Blend: Features a dark blend of reed sedge peat, perlite, and sand, offering the best conditions for plant health and soil structure
- Perfect for All Gardeners: Developed for both new and experienced home gardeners, this soil mix enhances plant growth in various environments and gardening projects
- Improves Soil Quality: Ideal for loosening heavy clay soils and enhancing moisture in light soils, making it perfect for use as a top dressing to fill holes in lawns and garden beds
Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix, Protects Against Over and Under Watering, for Indoor Container Plants, Houseplants and Starter Plants, OMRI Listed, 16 qt., 2-Pack
- Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix protects indoor plants against over and under watering
- This organic container mix is made with responsibly sourced sphagnum peat moss (one hundred percent of peat sourced from certified producers), coir, and quick-start natural fertilizer
- Use this potting medium with all types of indoor container plants, including houseplants and herbs; also great for seed starting
- To plant seeds, fill container with potting mix, follow seed package planting directions, and water; To use with transplants, partially fill container, place plant after loosening the root ball, cover with more mix pressing lightly, and water
- This bundle includes two 16 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Organic Indoor Potting Mix; each bag fills one 12-inch container (amounts may vary based on the size of the root ball)
Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix, for Outdoor Container Plants, Contains Quick-Release Natural Fertilizer, OMRI Listed, 16 qt., 2-Pack
- Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix contains a quick-release natural fertilizer and also feeds plants for up to 2 months
- This potting mix is made with responsibly sourced peat (one hundred percent of peat sourced from certified producers)
- Use this organic potting mix with all types of outdoor container plants, including flowers, vegetables, herbs, annuals, and perennials
- To plant in pots, fill the container partially full with potting mix, place the plant in the pot after loosening the root ball, cover with more mix and water thoroughly
- This bundle includes two 16 qt. bags of Miracle-Gro Organic Outdoor Potting Mix; each fills one 12-inch container (amounts may vary based on the size of the root ball)
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What should I look for when choosing an organic potting mix for indoor plants?
Focus on mixes that are peat‑free, contain moisture‑retaining additives like yucca extract or coir, and include beneficial microbes such as mycorrhizae for root health. Look for pet‑safe formulations that minimize gnats, and check for a balanced pH using dolomitic limestone. These features help indoor plants stay hydrated without over‑watering and promote stronger growth.
How does Back to the Roots’ indoor mix compare to Miracle‑Gro’s indoor organic mix?
Back to the Roots offers a peat‑free, 100 % organic blend with yucca extract and mycorrhizae, emphasizing sustainability and pet safety. Miracle‑Gro’s indoor mix uses responsibly sourced peat, coir, and a quick‑release natural fertilizer, providing a nutrient boost but a higher carbon footprint. If eco‑friendliness is a priority, Back to the Roots is the better choice; for rapid feeding, Miracle‑Gro may edge ahead.
Is there a noticeable value difference between the 12‑quart and 16‑quart bags?
The 12‑quart Back to the Roots bags cost less per bag but provide fewer total quarts, while the 16‑quart Miracle‑Gro bags deliver more volume for a slightly higher price, often translating to a lower cost per quart. Consider how many containers you plan to fill; larger bags are more economical for multiple plants or larger pots.
Which mix is best for outdoor container gardening?
Miracle‑Gro’s Outdoor Organic Potting Mix includes a quick‑release natural fertilizer that feeds plants for up to two months and is formulated for a wide range of outdoor vegetables, herbs, and flowers. Back to the Roots’ outdoor version is peat‑free and versatile but lacks the built‑in fertilizer, so you may need to supplement nutrients. For convenience and feeding power, Miracle‑Gro is typically preferred.
How important is the presence of mycorrhizae in a potting soil?
Mycorrhizae form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots, improving nutrient uptake and water efficiency, which can lead to healthier, faster‑growing plants. Both Back to the Roots indoor mix and Wonder Soil include mycorrhizal fungi, giving them an edge for root development. If you want to boost plant vigor, choose a mix that lists this feature.
What are the benefits of using coco coir‑based mixes like Wonder Soil?
Coco coir offers excellent water retention while providing superior drainage and aeration, reducing the risk of root rot. Wonder Soil also adds worm castings, kelp, and perlite, creating a nutrient‑rich environment without peat, which lowers the environmental impact. It’s a good option for gardeners seeking a sustainable, high‑performance medium.
Do any of these mixes help prevent over‑watering or under‑watering?
Miracle‑Gro’s Indoor Organic Mix advertises protection against both over‑ and under‑watering thanks to its blend of peat, coir, and a moisture‑regulating formula. Back to the Roots indoor mix uses yucca extract for moisture control, which also helps maintain consistent soil humidity. Both aim to simplify watering schedules, but Miracle‑Gro emphasizes this benefit more directly.
How do the sustainability credentials of these products compare?
Back to the Roots leads on sustainability with 100 % organic, peat‑free blends made from upcycled plant matter, reducing carbon emissions. Miracle‑Gro uses responsibly sourced peat, which is certified but still extracts a finite resource. Wonder Soil’s coco coir is a renewable by‑product, offering another eco‑friendly alternative. Choose based on how much you value peat‑free versus responsibly sourced peat.